UNILAG Rebukes Student Affairs Division Over Controversial Sexual Harassment Advisory

The University of Lagos (UNILAG) has withdrawn a controversial sexual harassment advisory issued by its Student Affairs Division after it sparked widespread criticism from students, advocacy groups, and members of the public who described its contents as inappropriate and victim-blaming.

The advisory, displayed on a roll-up banner titled "Counselling Tips for Ladies to Avoid Sexual Harassment/Rape," contained a series of instructions directed at female students. Among the messages were: "Do not dress to kill," "Your dress is your address," "Do not shake hands anyhow with any man," "Do not mingle carelessly with men," and "Learn to say no." It also advised female students not to stay alone with men in secluded places, avoid accepting frequent gifts or unnecessary favours from men, stay away from pornographic materials, avoid intoxicants, and remain vigilant whenever they were served drinks.

Following the circulation of the advisory on social media, many Nigerians criticised the university, arguing that the messages appeared to place the responsibility for preventing sexual harassment on women rather than addressing the actions of perpetrators. Critics maintained that such advice could discourage victims from reporting cases and reinforce harmful stereotypes that blame victims for the misconduct of others.

In response to the public backlash, the University of Lagos released an official statement through the Head of its Communication Unit, Adejoke Alaga-Ibraheem, acknowledging that the advisory had indeed been produced by the Student Affairs Division. However, the university stressed that the content did not reflect the institution's values, policies, or official position on sexual harassment.

The university announced the immediate withdrawal of the advisory, stating that any material which shifts responsibility to victims or suggests they are responsible for being harassed is completely unacceptable.

According to the statement, UNILAG maintains a zero-tolerance policy against sexual harassment and rape, emphasising that such acts constitute serious misconduct and have no place within the university community. The institution further noted that sexual harassment is not limited to one gender and can affect anyone, regardless of age or background.
UNILAG encouraged students who have experienced or witnessed any form of sexual harassment to make use of the university's confidential reporting channels, assuring them that every complaint would receive proper investigation and that victims would be provided with the necessary support and protection.
The university also reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a safe, respectful, inclusive, and equitable learning environment where students and staff can study and work without fear of harassment or discrimination.